What Does B0098 Mean?
This code indicates that the Restraints Control Module (RCM) or Airbag Control Module has detected a malfunction or abnormal signal from the third occupant detection or side impact sensor on the right side of the vehicle. This sensor is part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and monitors for side-impact collisions or occupant presence to deploy side airbags appropriately. The subfault designation suggests a secondary or component-level issue within the sensor circuit or sensor itself.
Safety Warning
The vehicle should not be driven as the airbag system may be compromised and side airbags may not deploy properly in a collision, or could deploy unexpectedly. The airbag warning light will remain illuminated, indicating a critical safety system fault that requires immediate professional repair.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connector to the right side restraint sensor, often caused by water intrusion, seat movement wear, or accident damage
30%
Faulty right side restraint sensor (pressure sensor or occupant classification sensor) due to internal component failure or impact damage
15%
Poor ground connection or open circuit in the sensor ground path, causing intermittent or incorrect sensor readings
10%
Restraints Control Module internal fault or software corruption affecting sensor signal processing
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform a visual inspection of the right side seat area, B-pillar, and door panel for the sensor location. Check all visible wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or water intrusion. Look for previous accident repairs or seat modifications.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, check the continuity and resistance of the sensor circuit from the sensor connector to the RCM connector (typically 2-5 ohms for wiring). Verify power and ground circuits are present at the sensor connector per manufacturer specifications (usually 5V reference and solid ground).
3
Step 3: Disconnect the right side restraint sensor and measure its internal resistance across the appropriate terminals (consult wiring diagram). Compare readings to factory specifications. A reading of infinite resistance or zero resistance typically indicates sensor failure.
4
Step 4: If wiring and sensor test within specifications, monitor live sensor data with the scan tool while applying gentle pressure to the seat or simulating sensor activation (if applicable). Check for erratic voltage readings or dropouts that indicate intermittent connection issues.
5
Step 5: Clear the DTC and perform a test drive including normal seat occupancy variations. Monitor for code recurrence. If the code returns immediately without movement, suspect RCM or wiring; if it returns intermittently, focus on connectors and harness flex points.
6
Step 6: After repair (sensor replacement, wiring repair, or connector cleaning), clear all codes, perform RCM self-test procedures, and verify proper airbag system operation with all warning lights functioning correctly before returning vehicle to service.
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $1,200
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Restraints Control Module (RCM) or Airbag Control Module has detected a malfunction or abnormal signal from the third occupant detection or side impact sensor on the right side of the vehicle. This sensor is part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and monitors fo...
The most common cause of B0098 (Right Side Restraints Sensor 3 (Subfault)) is: Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connector to the right side restraint sensor, often caused by water intrusion, seat movement wear, or accident damage
Typical repair costs for B0098 range from $200 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The vehicle should not be driven as the airbag system may be compromised and side airbags may not deploy properly in a collision, or could deploy unexpectedly. The airbag warning light will remain illuminated, indicating a critical safety system fault that requires immediate professional repair.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B0098 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/Airbag)
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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